Read: Ephesians 3:1-10
Watch: Bible Project: Gospel of the Kingdom
I don’t say it enough: I am truly honored to be your pastor and your shepherd.
A long time ago (though not in a galaxy far, far away), the Lord called a young man to serve Him. The message was simple—perfect for my simple mind: “I am calling you to serve Me by ministering to My people.” That moment happened at a youth camp in the mountains. After the service, I shared the news with the minister leading the event. He encouraged me to go home and share it with my own pastor and local church. I did exactly that.
By the grace of God, that small church in central New Mexico affirmed the calling and licensed me “to the Gospel Ministry.” I began my service by leading music and working as the church janitor. Over the years, I continued my education and served in a variety of roles across many churches. In 1988, I was ordained to the gospel ministry; the rest is a history far too long to recount here!
Like the Apostle Paul, when I was first called, I had no idea where the journey would lead. Much like Paul, the Lord eventually led me to serve overseas in cross-cultural ministry—an opportunity for which I am sincerely humbled and grateful.
Now, the Lord has called me to serve as your pastor. The privilege of my calling is to proclaim the Good News and the endless treasures available to God’s people. God’s purpose in this process is for IBC Madrid to display His wisdom to the world.
Sounds simple enough, right? So, how are we doing?
Our ministry is a partnership with the Lord and with each other to accomplish His corporate purposes through us. We are called to be a living display of His wisdom. I am honored to serve Him by serving you. Thank you for the privilege of being your pastor.
Pray: “Lord, make me a servant today.”
Reflection Questions
- The “Janitor” Phase: Pastor Mark shared that he began his ministry as a church janitor. What “humble” or “behind-the-scenes” roles has God used in your life to shape your character and prepare you for where you are today?
- The Mystery of the Path: Like the Apostle Paul and Pastor Mark, we rarely see the full map of our lives at the start. Looking back, where can you see God’s hand guiding you through a transition or a location you never expected to visit?
- Endless Treasures: Paul speaks of the “unsearchable riches of Christ” (Ephesians 3:8). In this current season of your life, which of God’s “treasures”—such as His peace, His patience, or His wisdom—do you feel the greatest need to tap into?
- The Corporate Purpose: If IBC Madrid is meant to be a display of God’s wisdom to the world, what is one practical way you can contribute to that “display” in your workplace, neighborhood, or home this week?